HOUSEPLANTS can be a nice way to add some life and colour into your space.
However, they can also act as magnets for insects, drawing them into your home.
Commenting on a Reddit post, Eating_snow revealed the pest control recipe she swears by.
She shared the hack in response to a fellow Reddit user’s request for help with thrip infested potted plants.
The commenter explained that she discovered that neem oil is effective in tackling the bugs.
She described the ingredient as her pest control “go-to” for her houseplants.
“You would need 100% pure good-quality cold pressed neem oil and an emulsifier,” the Redditor said.
Authentic Oil Co’s 100% Pure and Natural Neem Oil is available for £2.49 from Amazon.
According to the experts at Combat Pest Solutions, neem oil works by “disrupting the hormonal system” of the insects.
For an emulsifier, she recommended either the traditional rimulgan or a “mild liquid soap.”
“Personally, I use rimulgan but there are lots of people that say liquid soap works fine, too,” she said.
The Redditor broke down the measurements of her “standard recipe.”
She revealed that she uses five mililitres of neem oil to one mililitre of rimulgan and one litre water.
The commenter added that most recipes that use soap call for two mililitres of liquid soap instead of rimulgan.
“Pour the mix into a spray bottle, shake it a bit and use it,” she advised.
She highlighted the importance of covering the whole plant, including the undersides of the leaves.
According to the Redditor, you should spray until the plant is “completely wet and dripping.”
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here's what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps – hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths – acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants – herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes – plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
“Reapply every few days until the thrips are completely gone and be sure to remove any dead insects after the oil has done its job,” she said.
“This solution can also be used very well preventatively to protect your plant from pesky insects, pests, and fungi.”
She suggested placing the plant outdoors or in your shower before trying the “messy” method.
The commenter also warned her fellow fellow Reddit users to be speedy with the solution.
“You’ll need to use the mix within max of 24 hours as beyond that the ingredients will start to break down,” she explained.
“A treatment under direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent phototoxic reactions in plants.”
